Epoxy resin is one of the most exciting materials you can work with.
It’s shiny, strong, and looks amazing on just about anything: wood, art, jewelry, and even floors. But if you’ve never used it before, it can seem a little intimidating.
What do you mix? How long does it take to dry? And how do you keep it from turning into a sticky mess?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using epoxy resin, step by step.
If you’re planning to make your own river table, seal your artwork, or craft a custom piece of jewelry, this beginner’s guide will help you start your first epoxy resin project with confidence.
What Is Epoxy Resin?
Epoxy resin is a versatile, durable, and crystal-clear adhesive used in a wide range of applications, from home DIY projects to professional art and construction.
It comes in two parts: resin and hardener. When mixed, these create a chemical reaction that turns the liquid into a hard, plastic-like finish.
It’s waterproof, chemical-resistant, and bonds well to many surfaces. At its core, epoxy resin is a thermosetting polymer, which means that once it’s cured, it remains solid.
Unlike glue, it doesn’t just sit on the surface; it fuses materials together, creating a strong, glossy finish.
You’ll find it in crafting, woodworking, flooring, and even electronics, thanks to its strength and clarity.
To use it properly, you’ll need to mix the two parts in the correct ratio (usually 1:1 or 2:1). The reaction begins immediately, so timing and preparation are crucial.
Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin your epoxy resin project, it’s important to gather the right tools and supplies. Having these items ready will help you work more smoothly and get the best results.
- Epoxy resin and hardener: The two parts you mix to create the resin.
- Small measuring cups: For measuring equal parts of resin and hardener.
- Stirring sticks: To thoroughly mix the resin without introducing bubbles.
- Toothpicks: Useful for popping bubbles and filling small spaces in molds.
- Silicone moulds: Flexible molds that release cured resin easily.
- Silicone mat or non-stick surface cover: Protects your work area and prevents sticking.
- Gloves: Essential for safety and to prevent resin from coming into contact with your skin.
- Confetti sprinkles, glitter, or dried flowers: Add-ins for decorative flair.
- Mica powder or pigment inks (optional): Used for adding color and shine to resin.
- Warm water or a hot water bottle: Helps warm the resin and reduce bubbles.
- Pipette or small spoon: For controlled pouring into small molds.
- Mini resin drill (for adding keyring holes): Used to drill holes after the resin cures.
Step-By-Step Guide: How to Use Epoxy Resin
Ready to start your first resin craft? This step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process from preparing your space and mixing resin correctly to pouring in molds and adding creative details.
Step 1: Set Up Your Workspace
Start by covering your work surface with a silicone mat to protect it from spills and drips. Choose a well-ventilated area, as resin fumes can be strong and unhealthy.
Wear gloves to protect your skin. To reduce bubbles in the mix, place your resin bottles in a jug of warm water for 10–15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare Your Resin
Read your resin kit’s instructions carefully to understand the mixing ratio, which is commonly 1:1 or 2:1 resin to hardener.
Measure each part accurately using separate cups, then combine them in a mixing cup.
Stir slowly but thoroughly for 2–3 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure even mixing. Avoid whipping air into it.
Step 3: First Pour
Slowly pour the mixed resin into your silicone mould until it reaches about halfway.
Tilt the mould if needed to level the resin. Tap the mould gently to release any trapped air bubbles.
Then, let the resin sit undisturbed in a dust-free area for the full recommended curing time, typically around 24 hours.
Step 4: Add Decorative Fillings
After the first resin layer has hardened but is still in the mould, add your decorative materials. Choose lightweight items like dried flowers, pastel confetti, small charms, or glitter.
Arrange them carefully on the cured surface. Tweezers help with placement. Ensure nothing protrudes beyond the top of the mould.
Step 5: Second Pour
Mix a fresh batch of resin using the same careful process. Slowly pour it over your decorations, completely covering them and filling the mould to the top.
Watch for air pockets that may form around the fillings, pop them with a toothpick, or give them a quick pass with a heat gun. Let this second layer cure fully.
Step 6: Reveal Your Creation
Once the second layer has fully cured, usually after 24 to 48 hours, gently remove the item from the mould.
Stretch the silicone mould from the sides to release the piece.
You’ll now have a smooth, glossy resin charm or coaster. If needed, use scissors or a craft knife to trim off any excess resin.
Step 7: Mix in Mica and Glitter (Project 2)
For a vibrant, shimmery look, stir mica powder into your mixed resin before pouring.
Mica adds metallic tones and depth. Add glitter for extra sparkle and texture; both chunky and fine glitter work.
Mix thoroughly, but gently, so the shimmer distributes evenly without adding air bubbles that could cloud the resin.
Step 8: Pour and Detail
Pour the colored resin carefully into your mould, filling it slowly to control the flow. Use a toothpick or skewer to guide resin into tight corners or small design areas.
If you overfill the mould, once cured, any excess can be trimmed or sanded off using a craft knife or sanding block.
Step 9: Final Curing
Let your resin piece cure completely in a dust-free, level spot. This may take up to 48 hours, depending on your resin brand. After curing, remove it from the mould.
If you’re making keychains or jewelry, use a mini drill to create holes carefully. Attach hooks, key rings, or chains to complete your project.
Curious how it all comes together? Watch this step-by-step epoxy resin tutorial by @GatheredMakes on YouTube.
Types of Epoxy Resin and Their Uses
Epoxy resin isn’t a one-size-fits-all material. Each type is made for specific projects, and knowing which one to use can make or break your results.
1. Casting Resin
Casting resin is designed to be poured in thick layers, up to 2 inches or more at a time.
It has a longer curing time, which helps reduce heat buildup and prevents cracks or bubbles in deep pours.
It’s usually very clear and fluid, making it perfect for projects where you want to see through the resin or suspend items inside.
Best for:
- Deep molds
- River tables
- Embedding objects (like flowers, coins, or shells)
- 3D art pieces
Tip: Always pour in a dust-free area and allow each layer to fully cure before adding another.
2. Coating Resin
Coating resin is thicker and cures faster than casting resin, making it ideal for creating thin, even layers. It creates a strong, glass-like finish that’s smooth and glossy.
It levels itself out, but you’ll need to pour quickly and use a heat gun or torch to pop surface bubbles.
Best for:
- Tabletops and bar tops
- Artwork (like resin paintings)
- Photo sealing and coasters
- Thin surface layers
Tip: Apply in a clean, level space. Use painter’s tape to keep the edges neat if you’re working on flat art pieces.
3. UV-Resistant Resin
Regular resin tends to yellow over time when exposed to sunlight, but UV-resistant resin has special additives that help block harmful rays.
This makes it the right pick for outdoor pieces or anything you plan to display near windows or on patios.
Best for:
- Outdoor tables and furniture
- Sun-exposed art or crafts
- Resin jewelry that’s worn often outside
Tip: Even UV-stable resin can yellow eventually, so add a topcoat or keep items shaded when possible.
4. Fast-Cure Epoxy
Fast-cure epoxy starts hardening in just minutes and sets quickly. It’s super useful for patching things up or gluing materials together, especially when you don’t have hours to wait.
However, it usually sets too fast for artwork or deep pours.
Best for:
- Small home repairs
- Gluing broken parts
- Emergency fixes
- Simple projects that need to dry fast
Tip: Work fast and only mix what you can use in a few minutes; once it starts curing, you can’t go back.
Curing Time and What to Expect
Epoxy resin needs time and the right conditions to fully harden. Most resins take between 24 to 72 hours to cure, though some projects may require up to a week for complete hardness.
The ideal curing environment is a temperature of 70–75°F (21–24°C) with low humidity. If the room is too cold or damp, the resin may cure slowly or remain sticky.
To avoid problems, always follow the specific instructions for your resin brand. While curing, protect your project from dust and hair by covering it with a clean box or container.
You’ll know your resin is fully cured when it’s completely hard, smooth, and no longer tacky to the touch.
Rushing this step can lead to surface flaws or weak results, so give it time and check carefully before using or adding more layers.
Creative Epoxy Resin Project Ideas
Epoxy resin isn’t just for sealing or coating; it’s also a fantastic material for creative DIY projects.
DIY Resin Coasters and Jewelry
Resin coasters are a beginner-friendly project with a lot of creative freedom. You can add dried flowers, glitter, color swirls, or even tiny photos into silicone molds.
Once cured, they’re not only useful but also beautiful. Resin jewelry works the same way.
With small molds and fun fillers, like gold flakes, shells, or pigments, you can make one-of-a-kind earrings, pendants, rings, or keychains.
These pieces are lightweight, durable, and totally customizable.
Epoxy Tabletops and River Tables
Epoxy tabletops and river tables are show-stopping pieces for the home.
A river table is made by placing two slabs of wood with a gap in between and filling that space with tinted or clear epoxy.
The result is a flowing “river” effect that looks amazing in dining rooms or offices.
Epoxy can also be poured over full tabletops to create a smooth, glossy surface that protects the wood and highlights its natural grain.
It’s a bit more advanced, but the finished product is truly impressive.
Decorative Art and Wall Pieces
Resin is also great for making unique wall art. Artists often create abstract paintings by mixing different colors of resin and pouring them onto panels or canvas.
You can tilt the surface to guide the flow or use tools to create patterns. Add-ons like metallic powder, ink, or textured materials can add depth and shine.
Once cured, the artwork is hard, glossy, and ready to hang. It’s a fun way to add personality and color to your space.
Safety Precautions Before You Start
Before working with epoxy resin, take a few simple steps to ensure your safety and minimize messes.
- Proper Ventilation and Workspace Setup: Work in a well-ventilated area, open windows or use fans. Cover your table and keep pets and kids away. Have all tools ready before mixing.
- Handling and Storage Tips: Read the label. Store resin in a cool, dry place. Seal tightly after use. Clean spills fast with alcohol wipes. Use resin-only tools.
- Skin and Eye Protection Advice: Wear nitrile gloves and safety goggles. Long sleeves help protect skin. Epoxy is hard to clean off and can irritate eyes and skin.
Tips for Using Epoxy Resin
These simple tips will help you avoid common mistakes, mix accurately, pour smoothly, and get a clean, professional-looking finish every time.
- Wear protective gear: Always use gloves, safety glasses, and work in a well-ventilated space.
- Use accurate measurements: Mix resin and hardener in the correct ratio (usually 1:1 or 2:1).
- Stir slowly and thoroughly: Mix for 3–5 minutes, scraping sides and bottom to blend fully.
- Avoid introducing bubbles: Stir gently and avoid whipping the mixture.
- Prepare your workspace: Use a level surface, cover it with plastic or wax paper, and keep it dust-free.
- Pour in thin layers: This helps control bubbles and ensures even curing.
- Use a torch or heat gun: Gently pass it over the surface to pop air bubbles right after pouring.
- Control temperature: Keep the curing area warm and steady (70–80°F is ideal).
- Let it cure undisturbed: Don’t move or touch the resin for at least 24–72 hours, depending on the product.
Common Mistakes
Even with care, things can go wrong. Epoxy resin can sometimes turn out sticky, bubbly, or uneven, but don’t worry. Most issues are easily resolved with simple tools and a few key tips.
- Sticky or Soft Resin Fixes: If your resin stays sticky, it’s likely due to bad mixing. Scrape it off and pour a fresh, well-mixed layer. Heat can’t fix this.
- How to Repair Bubbles or Cracks: Use a heat gun to pop bubbles while the resin is still wet. For cured cracks, sand the area and pour a new layer to fill in.
- When and How to Sand and Re-Coat: Wait until the resin fully cures. Then lightly sand with fine grit to smooth or prep for a new layer. Always wipe off dust before recoating.
Conclusion
Epoxy resin is a strong, shiny, and creative material that’s great for DIY projects. Once you learn how to mix, apply, and let it cure properly, it’s easy to use, even for beginners.
If you want to make coasters, jewelry, art, or furniture, the key is choosing the right type of resin and working step by step.
Take your time, prepare your space, and don’t rush the process. Small mistakes can be fixed, and each project helps you learn more. Start with something simple, like a resin coaster, and grow from there.
Epoxy resin lets you turn your ideas into real, lasting pieces. It’s fun, flexible, and rewarding.
Ready to begin? Gather your tools, follow the guide, and enjoy the process.
Start with a small project, follow the steps, and see where your creativity takes you!